Egyptian archaeologist Zahi Hawass on Tuesday responded to controversial statements from Dutch seismologist Frank Hoogerbeets, who claimed that the Giza pyramids were built with advanced astronomical knowledge exceeding the capabilities of the ancient Egyptians.
Hoogerbeets cited comparisons between the sizes of the planets and the speed of light as evidence.
He pointed out that the pyramids are precisely aligned and that their massive stones were transported over hundreds of kilometers, questioning how this was achieved.
Hoogerbeets drew comparisons between the proportions of the pyramids’ sizes and those of planets like Earth and Venus, arguing that this is beyond human comprehension.
He also questioned how the ancient Egyptians possessed this astronomical information, asserting that they were unaware of the sizes of the planets and the sun.
He predicted that future discoveries would offer a different perspective on the pyramids, claiming “In the near future, there will be discoveries that will place the pyramids in a completely different light, and we may be able to connect some of the dots.”
‘Nonsense’
Hawass described Hoogerbeets’s claims as “nonsense and drivel.”
In statement to Al-Arabiya.net, Hawass asserted that these claims are aimed at generating buzz without any scientific basis, and he demanded concrete evidence.
Hawass advised the Dutch seismologist to read the Wadi al-Jarf papyrus, which explains the construction of the pyramids, details the transportation of the stones, and describes the workers’ tombs.
“These speculations lack evidence, and the pyramids, as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, deserve respect based on science and evidence, not false fame,” Hawass stressed.
He explained that the Giza plateau, with its three levels, provided unique stones for the construction of the pyramids, a fact supported by ample scientific and archaeological evidence.
These unscientific claims will end up in the “dustbin of history” in the face of existing evidence, Hawass said.
Regarding persistent doubts surrounding the construction of the pyramids, Hawass explained that the pyramids are one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and that these claims are made merely for the sake of fleeting fame.
“I am watching them closely, and I respond only with science and evidence.”
Concerning the Dutch researcher’s claims that the Pyramids are an impossible engineering feat, Hawass said, “I simply want scientific, archaeological, architectural, or written evidence from him. All he has said is nonsense, and unfortunately, a great deal of hype has been created around the issue.”
Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
